Clare Willcocks
17 February 2025
The highly anticipated adaptation of Raynor Winn’s bestselling memoir, The Salt Path, is bringing its breathtaking story to the big screen. Following Raynor and her husband Moth as they walk the South West Coast Path after losing everything, this emotional tale unrolls against a backdrop of stunning filming locations in Cornwall. Raynor is played by actress Gillian Anderson, while Jason Isaacs takes on the role of Moth.
Known for its dramatic landscapes and coastal charm, Cornwall’s astounding scenery will need no enhancement in the film, and has already been featured many times on the big screen. Below, we explore the key known filming destinations in Cornwall inspired by The Salt Path book. More filming spots may be revealed once The Salt Path movie is released.
If you’re looking for accommodation while walking on the South West Coast Path, browse our coastal cottages in Cornwall.
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Holywell Bay, North Cornwall
Famous for its sandy dunes and striking twin-peaked Gull Rocks, Holywell Bay is a paradisical North Cornwall beach, located 6 miles from Newquay in North Cornwall. Having featured on the screen before, notably in Poldark, and James Bond: Die Another Day, this beach provides a wild and untouched beauty that perfectly captures the rugged charm of the South West Coast Path.
While not mentioned in the book, Raynor and Moth will most definitely have passed Holywell Bay on their journey. It’s easy to imagine the couple trekking along this windswept beach, finding solace in the untamed coastal landscape.
Passers-by spotted the celebrities and film crew down on the beach at Holywell Bay in July 2023. Gillian and Jason were sporting heavy packs and shared a passionate kiss while walking along the sand.
Highlights:
- Expansive golden sands perfect for a leisurely walk or beach picnic
- The iconic Gull Rocks framed against the Atlantic Ocean
- Sand dunes that offer endless exploration and phenomenal views
- Holywell St Piran Walk | 8 miles | challenging
Sandymouth Bay Beach, North Cornwall
Located near Bude (where there are lots of lovely places to eat!), Sandymouth Bay Beach is famous for its dramatic cliffs, black-pebbled shore, and rock pools. While it is also not mentioned specifically in the book, its inclusion in The Salt Path film is likely due to its rugged appearance and atmospheric, unspoilt nature.
In The Salt Path book, Raynor and Moth’s story explores the themes of the healing power of nature, so it’s unsurprising that the location scouts picked Sandymouth as the perfect representation of the isolation and freedom they experienced on foot.
Newquay, North Cornwall
While Newquay is best known for its surf culture, in The Salt Path, it provides temporary respite and human connection for the couple – ‘for the moment it was comforting to feel part of humanity’.
This bustling seaside town contrasts with the wild and weatherbeaten sections of the path. Newquay is packed with cafes and restaurants, with a lively atmosphere which must have felt strange for Raynor and Moth when compared to the vast expanses of natural coast they’d already passed through.
Lauded for its array of attractive beaches, Newquay is a top pick for visitors to Cornwall and is well set up with activities and attractions for all ages.
Padstow, North Cornwall
Padstow encapsulates the coastal village charm that is unique to Cornwall, with its picturesque harbour and narrow streets filled with artisan shops and seafood restaurants.
In The Salt Path book, Raynor and Moth withdraw some money in Padstow, stock up on supplies and eat a portion of chips from Rick Stein’s renowned fish and chip shop before making their way back to the path.
Film crews were spotted filming on the harbourside, and glimpses of the town made it into The Salt Path movie trailer.
Rame Head, Southeast Cornwall
On the southeast coast of Cornwall, Rame Head’s rugged cliffs and panoramic sea views make it an unforgettable destination. This remote location is a few days’ walk away from Raynor and Moth’s final destination, Polruan.
They take the opportunity to pitch their tent next to a beach, just beyond Rame Head, and prolong the inevitable end to their journey with over a week of sea swimming and resting. They run out of supplies, but make the most of their last opportunities to live amongst the power and awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Rame Head is sure to offer up some striking scenery in The Salt Path film. The high headland offers panoramic coastal views, while nearby, beautiful Mount Edgcumbe Country Park looks out over Drake’s Island, Plymouth and the Tamar Estuary. The wider area of South Cornwall offers an array of interesting things to do, too.
Highlights:
- Opportunities for bird spotting and wildlife watching from atop the headland
- The 14th-century chapel that sits on the crest of the hill
- Nearby attractions include Mount Edgcumbe and the villages of Kingsand and Cawsand
Map of The Salt Path filming locations in Cornwall
Discover The Salt Path filming locations in Cornwall on our handy map.
Stay in Cornwall
Planning your own exploration of Cornwall’s dramatic coastlines and charming towns? Stay in one of our Cornwall holiday cottages to make your trip even more memorable.
From cosy coastal retreats to luxury stays with sea views, there’s a property to suit every taste. Every cottage is handpicked to guarantee quality and comfort, ensuring your home away from home provides the perfect base for your adventure.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.